To My Dear Students,

After G-d miraculously saved the Jewish People by splitting the Sea and drowning the Egyptian pursuers in it, the Jewish men sang a beautiful song to G-d.  The Jewish women, however, outdid them by accompanying their song with musical instruments. 

From where did the women obtain musical instruments in the middle of the desert? 

Rashi explains: When the Jewish women were in Egypt and saw all of G-d’s acts on behalf of the Jewish People, they were convinced that they would merit further miracles.  They brought along instruments to play, which they were sure they would need to sing G-d’s praises for all He would do for them in the future.  Despite centuries of oppression and suffering in Egypt, they remained so optimistic that although they left in a hurry without time for their bread to rise, they still managed to pack instruments to celebrate the salvation they were sure was just around the corner.

During a drought in Israel that threatened the entire harvest, the Rabbis ordered people to go to the Western Wall to plead for divine mercy.  Soon after beginning their supplications, the clear sky became full of ominous clouds, which gave way to a torrential downpour.  Those present were so overjoyed by the answering of their prayers that they did not mind getting soaked, all except for one Jewish man who remained completely dry … because he had brought an umbrella!

Remember: We must have faith that our prayers will be successful; we must know that the future belongs to those who prepare for it; we must believe that G-d can perform ever more miracles for us; and we must understand that if we pray for rain, we should bring an umbrella—because you just never know!

With Shalom,

Your Rabbi